CSSA By-Laws Page 1

CSSA By-Laws updated 5/10/19

Absentee: is a vote cast by someone who is unable or unwilling to attend the official voting. Numerous methods have

been devised to facilitate this Board of Directors: Volunteers elected to help run the Clean & Sober Softball Assoc.

Council: Each Division /League has three (3) Council members. Including the Division’s Director and two Regular

Members.

Division: An area from where a group of six (6) or more teams play. Cascade, Central, East, North, West, TSRL, SouthSound

Domestic Partner: Person of legal age currently residing together and has resided together in a common household for a period of one year.

Exemption Player: Non-recovering players must be an eligible person's person's Domestic Partner (see definition) or

immediate family members (i.e. mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter) minimum 16 years of age.. Minimum thirty

(30) consecutive days drug and/or alcohol abstinence still applies. Each team may not have more than two exempt (or non-program) players per roster, per year.

Hardship: (1) A valid enough reason to switch teams. (2) A valid enough reason to have not participated in the required 40% of league games in order to participate in CSSA tournament play.

Nomination: Person you propose or suggest for a position w/in the CSSA

Proxy: Proxy voting and delegated voting are procedures for the association to another member of a voting body of that member's power to vote in his absence.

Quorum: is the minimum number of members of a deliberative body necessary to conduct the business of that group. Ordinarily this is a majority of the people expected to be there, although bodies may have a lower or higher quorum.

CSSA sets its quorum at 51%. (We have 24 voting members, therefore we meet quorum at 13 members present). All motions are then passed or failed based on a 2/3rd or 66% affirmative vote of the quorum present, at any duly organized

meeting.

Permanent Exemption Player: When a qualified rostered player decides to switch rosters within a division for a valid enough hardship reason as determined by the Eligibility Committee. Teams are allowed to receive ONE Permanent Transfer per gender. Player Member: Any person participating within the CSSA by being present & supporting their team by playing, by base

coaching, and keeping the score book.

Regular Member: These members include All Council Members, Board Members, Committee Chair Members, Team

Managers, Coaches, Executive Director Emeritus, Director Emeritus, Commissioner Emeritus and other elected or

appointed officials must be active Regular Members in good standing.

Situational pick-ups: Allowed in order to avoid forfeits. A team is allowed to pick-up a maximum of two current CSSA

Sanctioned players, not to exceed a team of nine (9). If three (3) or more players must be picked up to field a team, a forfeit will be granted unless waived by the opposing coach

Territory: An area from where a group of less than six (6) teams play.

Article I: Name & Purpose

Section I: Organization The name of the association shall be “The Clean & Sober Softball Association”, hereinafter referred to the Association or

CSSA. The Association shall also do business as the ‘CSSA’. The Washington State Clean & Sober Softball Association is an organization of Class Recreational Softball teams.

Section II: Mission & Purpose The CSSA is a recovery based activity and organization for “non-competitive” recreational softball. The primary purpose

of the CSSA and its franchise is to further the recovery through the community of softball. All Members and Volunteers

shall to adhere to the qualifications regarding abstinence & eligibility.

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Article II: Objective

Section I: Objective

The objective of the CSSA shall be: • To promote addiction & codependency recovery through community and fellowship for all persons regardless of race,

color, creed, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry.

• To provide a wide variety of consistent activities that reinforces the sense of community shared by persons in

recovery and their personal support group. • To promote recovery and the fellowship therein from substance abuse and the effects caused by it.

• To establish uniform softball rules & regulations for Clean & Sober Softball non-competitive play.

• To provide play with proper safeguards in accordance with the spirit of true sportsmanship and established principles

for ethical behavior and matters relating conflict of interest as determined by the CSSA Council & Board of Directors.

• To encourage the union of eligible teams, organizations or groups into such separate associations with active membership in the CSSA as may from time to time be deemed best adapted to advance Clean & Sober Softball.

• To establish & maintain by allied membership, alliances with non-profit associations or organizations devoted wholly

or partially to the promotion and development of fun activities in recovery on a State, Regional or National level.

Section II: Achieve Objective

To achieve the Objectives of the CSSA will provide a supervised program under the Rules and Regulations of CSSA, Incorporated, All Directors, Officers, & Members shall bear in mind the attainment of exceptional athletic skill or winning

of games is secondary, and that our primary purpose is to enhance unity, service, communication, fellowship and community among people in recovery (i.e. Alcoholics Anonymous, Alanon, & Alateen, etc.) In accordance with Section

501 – © (4) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code, the CSSA shall operate exclusively as a non-profit educational &

spiritual organization providing a supervised program of spirited softball leagues and tournament games. No part of the

net earnings shall insure the benefit of any private shareholder or individual; no substantial part if the activities of which

carry on propaganda, otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and which does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.

Article III: Membership

Section I: Eligibility

Any person sincerely interested in active participation to affect the objective of the Association may apply to become a Member. Player eligibility is outlined in detail below. In brief, returning members* must have thirty consecutive days of abstinence and involvement in a 12 step addiction related recovery program required to maintain player eligibility. New players must have thirty consecutive days of abstinence from drugs and alcohol and involvement in a 12 step addiction related recovery program required to maintain player eligibility. *updated 2011

The General Eligibility Requirements

Shall be adhered to at all times and is the foundation of our Association’s primary purpose.

Tournament Player Eligibility

Eligible roster players’ are those that were; on a CSSA roster By JUNE 30th, participated in at least 40% of CSSA league games. League tournament play does not apply towards qualification. Participation is defined as follows:

present & supporting their team by playing, by base coaching, keeping the score book, in the dugout & supporting their team. Player(s) shall be listed in the score book as a substitute and the coach shall have the opposing coach

sign next to each player(s) name listed as a substitute. It shall be the sole responsibility of the coach to maintain all

records pertinent to player qualification.

Player Participation

A player may only be on one regular roster at any time during the current season. Once electing to play in division play, no player is allowed to play in any other divisional play, league, or league tournament. Unless player has legal transfer approved by eligibility committee.

League Player Pick-Ups

Teams are allowed to pick up players within their division to field a legal nine player team to avoid forfeit. Teams are only allowed one casual exemption player from ANY classification higher. Once electing to participate in division play

on a team registered in a division, the player may not play in any other division during the current year unless the player qualifies under Player Transfer. CSSA eligibility applies at all times.

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Tournament Player Pick-Ups Teams are allowed three CSSA roster exemptions per tournament (not of the same gender). Teams are only allowed one casual exemption player from ANY classification higher. CSSA eligibility applies at all times.

Memorial Day Eligibility

Players must have participated in at least one divisional league game and still be able to qualify under Rule 2 player eligibility.

Official Rosters

Original rosters are due before your first league game along with the CSSA Eligibility Roster. Final roster deadline will

be the Monday before Independence Day Tournament. (Team rosters cannot exceed 20 players).

Roster Changes

Players are allowed only ONE regular transfer per year. Additions and/or deletions will be submitted on the Roster Add/Delete Form and be submitted by both coaches affected by the transfer. More than one form may be necessary throughout the year. All roster changes must be reviewed and accepted by both coaches and Division Director. The

Eligibility Committee shall review the roster change if necessary.

Hardship

After final roster deadline and before JULY 31st, a player may file for a hardship. It will require validation and must be in writing (e-mail accepted) with the reasons to be considered for hardship qualification. All roster changes must

be submitted and accepted or denied by the Eligibility Committee and then reviewed by the Classification

Committees. o Hardship roster transfer will constitute a Permanent Exemption player status. o A valid enough reason to have not participated in the required 40% of league games in order to participate in

CSSA must be submitted accepted or denied by the Eligibility Committee.

o Hardship approved player will constitute a Permanent Exemption player status. o Hardship Player must be submitted by July 31st. NO player transfers or subjective hardships will be

considered after July 31st.

Permanent Transfers

o A hardship transfer is deemed a permanent rostered player. o Teams will be allowed only one Permanent transfer player per gender on their roster for the current season.

o Permanent transfer players are not allowed to play for ANY other team for the remainder of the year.

Exemptions

Non Recovering Players

o Family Members

Domestic Partner (see definition) or Immediate Family Members (i.e. mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter) minimum 16 years of age

Family Members do not count against the teams one Permanent Exemption Rostered Player

Section II: Members

Player Members: Any Player candidate meeting the eligibility requirements outlined in section five of the CSSA Code

and shall be eligible to participate but shall have no rights, duties or obligations in the management of the CSSA.

These Members do not have voting privileges.

o Non Recovering Player Regular Members: Any adult person actively interested in furthering the objectives of the CSSA. The secretary shall

maintain the roll of membership to qualify voting members. These Members do have voting privileges.

o Only Regular Members in good standing are eligible to vote at Semi-Annual Meeting. All Council Members,

Board Members, Committee Chair Members, Team Managers, Coaches, Executive Director Emeritus, Director Emeritus, Commissioner Emeritus, and Grandfathered players (2008 forward) and other elected or appointed officials must be active Regular Members in good standing.

Good Standing Defined: A person adhering to the general eligibility requirements and the CSSA’s primary

purpose.

Member. As used herein after, the word “Member” shall mean a Regular Member unless otherwise stated.

Section III: Member Suspension & Terminations

Termination

Membership may be terminated by resignation or action of the CSSA Council or of the Board of Directors.

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Suspension Board of Directors: by majority vote those present at any duly constituted meeting, shall have the authority to discipline or suspend or terminate the membership of any Member of any class, when the conduct of such person is considered detrimental to the best interests of CSSA.

Notification

The Member involved shall be notified of such meeting, informed of the general nature of the charges and given an opportunity to appear at the meeting to answer such charges. The Member may participate in the meeting or supply a letter on their behalf; electronic version acceptable to the Executive Director.

The CSSA Board of Directors in case of a Player, give notice to the manager of the team for which the player is a Member. Said Manager shall appear, in the capacity of an adviser, with the player before the CSSA Council BOD, which

shall have full power to suspend or revoke such players’ rights to future participation. The CSSA Council BOD shall have full power to suspend or revoke such player’s right to future participation by two-thirds vote of those present at any duly constituted meeting (quorum is required).

Article IV: Dues for Regular Members – Not Players

Section I: Fixed Amounts Dues for Regular Members may be fixed at such amounts, as the Board of Directors shall determine prior to the beginning

of any membership period. The annual membership period shall begin April 1st and end March 31st of each year.

Section II: A reasonable Association participation fee may be assessed to assure the operational continuity of the CSSA.

As of date of incorporation to 2012 there have been no set fixed amounts assessed for Members. A team is assessed a yearly sanction and administrative fee.

Section III: Fail to pay

Teams who fail to pay their fixed dues within thirty (30) days from the time the same become due may by majority vote

of the Board of Directors be dropped from the rolls and shall forfeit all rights and privileges of membership.

Article V: Meetings

Section I: Annual Managing Members’ Meeting

The CSSA shall conduct two annual member meetings entitled, “Winter Managing Members’ Meeting and Spring Managing

Members’ Meeting”. The members include All Council Members, Board Members, Committee Chair Members, Team Managers, Coaches, Executive Director Emeritus, Director Emeritus, Commissioner Emeritus and other elected or

appointed officials must be active Regular Members in good standing. Player Members are not part of this meeting.

These annual meetings of the Managing Members of CSSA shall be held and directed as follows:

The Winter Managing Members’ Meeting shall be held the first Saturday in November in each year for the purpose of nominating Directors, receiving committee reports and for the transaction of such business as may properly come before

the meeting. The Spring Managing Members’ Meeting shall be held the 2nd weekend in February in each year for the purpose of presenting deciding rules of play, by-law amendments, receiving reports and for the transaction of such business as may

properly come before the meeting.

Section II: Annual Council Meetings

The CSSA shall conduct two annual Council meetings entitled, “Winter Council Meeting and Spring Council Meeting”. The

members include All Council Members, Board Members, Executive Director Emeritus, Director Emeritus, Commissioner

Emeritus and other elected or appointed officials.

These annual meetings of the Council of CSSA shall be held and directed as follows: The Winter Council Meeting shall be held the first Saturday in December in each year for the purpose of electing Directors, receiving committee reports and for the transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting.

The Spring Council Meeting shall be held the 1st weekend in March each year for the purpose of voting on rules of

play, by-law amendments, and receiving reports and for the transaction of such business as may properly come before

the meeting

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Section III: Notice of Meetings Notice of each meeting of the Members and Council shall be published on the CSSA web-site at least ten (10) days in advance of thereof setting forth the place, time and in the case of special meetings, the purpose of the meeting. Notice of regular meetings other than the annual meeting shall be made by publishing on the CSSA web-site at least ten (10) days

in advance of the meeting

Section IV: Special Meetings

Special Meetings of the Members (Managers’ and Council) may be called by the Board of Directors or by the Executive

Director at their discretion; in addition upon the written request of ten (10) members, the Executive Director shall call a special meeting to consider a specific subject. No business other than that specified in the notice of the meeting shall be transacted at any special meeting

Section V: Quorum A quorum is the minimum number of members of a deliberative body necessary to conduct the business of that group. Ordinarily this is a majority of the people expected to be there, although bodies may have a lower or higher quorum.

CSSA sets its quorum at 51%. (We have 24 voting members, therefore we meet quorum at 13 members present). All motions are then passed or failed based on a 2/3rd or 66% affirmative vote of the quorum present, at any duly organized meeting.

Section VI: Voting

Only Members in good standing shall be entitled to vote at any meeting of CSSA unless otherwise stated herein a majority of members present or represented by absentee ballot at a meeting at which a quorum (2/3 Members or 66%) is present shall be necessary for the adoption of matters voted upon by the members. *See Article XIV By-Law Changes & Amendments

Good Standing Defined: A person adhering to the general eligibility requirements and the CSSA’s primary purpose.

Section VII: Absentee Ballot & Proxy Vote

Each member shall be entitled to one vote in person or one absentee ballot. A person attending the meeting in place of a

Regular Member in good standing will be entitled to one vote. Proxy voter must be submitted to the Executive Director prior to the start of a meeting containing voting actions.Section VIII: Rules of Order

Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the proceedings of all meetings, except where it conflicts with the Constitution or By- Laws of the CSSA.

Article VI: Board of Directors

Section I: Number of Directors The management of the property and affairs of CSSA shall be vested in the Board of Directors. The number of Directors

shall not be less than three (3) or more than nine (9). The Directors shall enter upon the performance of their duties on

January 1, and shall continue in office until their successors shall have been duly elected and qualified. At each annual

meeting when a BOD term expires, the Council shall elect such number of directors to be elected for the ensuing year and shall elect such numbers of directors.

Section II: Available Positions

The Board of Directors shall be selected regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry.

1. Executive Director (mandatory)

2. Vice Director (mandatory)

3. Treasurer (mandatory)

4. Secretary

5. Rules and Ethics Director

6. Public Information – added in 2009

Section III: Qualifications Each elected official must have two (2) or more consecutive years of drug and alcohol abstinence to be nominated for an

officer position. Each elected official must have been a member in good standing the previous year and have previously held a service position for at least one year.

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Section IV: Standard Duties

The duties of the Board of Directors shall include, but shall not be limited to the following: Consider and make the final determination on Council appointments, Committee Chairs, Executive Director Emeritus,

Director Emeritus, Commissioner Emeritus and other elected or appointed officials;

Review and take action on any unethical behavior of CSSA Council members; Attend to all matters concerning future directions and goals of the CSSA;

Attend to all matters concerning the bi- annual meeting of the CSSA;

Review and take such action as the Board of Directors deems necessary or appropriate with respect to any redistricting issues;

Attend to all matters concerning the CSSA’s insurance program; Attend to all matters concerning the annual budget;

Attend to all business of the CSSA between bi-annual meetings.

Section V: Nominations

Those available members to be nominated include; Past Board of Directors, Current Board of Directors, past CSSA Council Members, current Council Members, Committee Chairs that have Chaired for two consecutive years.

Nominations for Board of Director Positions must come from a Council and/or Board member in good standing.

Any member wanting to be nominated for a Board of Directors’ position within the CSSA MUST be present at the All

Members Meeting the 1st Saturday in November. A proxy (from the nominee) can be presented by the Council/BOD

member to represent that nominee. The member wanting to accept the nomination for the Board of Directors’ position within the CSSA MUST be present at

the All Members Meeting the 1st Saturday in November. A proxy (from the nominee) can be presented by the Council / BOD member who nominated the individual. The proxy must include the nominee’s acceptance of the position and an outline of qualifications for the nominated position.

Nominees must present at the Council Meeting the 1st Sunday in December.

Section VI: Elections All elections of Directors shall be by quorum vote of all Council members present or represented by absentee ballot or

proxy ballot at the time of the meeting. At each annual Members meeting, when a board members term expires for the

upcoming year, the Board of Directors shall determine the number of Directors to be elected for the ensuing year and

shall elect such number of directors. The number so fixed may within the limits prescribed by the foregoing Section 2

(above), be increased at any regular or special meeting of the Members and if the number is increased, the additional Directors may be elected at the Winter Council Meeting, or at any subsequent meeting. All elections of Directors shall be

by majority vote of all Council members present or represented by absentee ballot or proxy ballot at the time of the meeting.

Section VII: Term of Office

The Executive Director shall serve a term of four years, with a maximum of two consecutive terms.

All others shall hold office for a term of two years and eligible for re-election. With no limits.

Section VIII: Vacancies If any vacancy occurs in the Board of Directors; for any reason resigns, is unable to act, removed from office or dies, then

the position may be filled by a majority vote of the remaining Board of Directors present at any regular meeting or at any

special meeting called for that purpose.

Section IX: Removal

Two-thirds vote (Quorum) of the Board of Directors and voting Council members combined may remove any Board of

Director for just cause.

Example: 18 Council Members & 6 BOD equals 24 Members in Good Standing. 24 X .666 = 16 Members to remove BOD

Section X: Meetings

The Board of Directors will meet once a month (regular basis) necessary to conduct the interim business of the CSSA.

The Board of Directors shall convene a minimum of four times per year with Members & Council ‘winter’ and ‘spring’

meetings.

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Site - The CSSA Executive Director shall determine the site of all Board of Directors meetings Notice - The Executive Director shall send to each member of the Board of Directors written notice of each meeting of the Board of Directors at least seven (7) days prior to such meeting. The notice shall specify the date and time of the

meeting and shall also include either a place where the meeting will be held or a telephone number which a Director may

use to participate in the meeting telephonically. Notice may be sent by e-mail, text, phone call or other reputable delivery service. The notice need not specify the purpose of the meeting. Any business that may be transacted by the Board of Directors at a regular meeting may also be transacted at a special meeting of the Board of Directors

Section XI: Budget

At the conclusion of the Winter Council Meeting and before the Spring All Managers meeting, the BOD shall meet and prepare the preliminary budget for the upcoming season. The preliminary Budget will be presented at the Spring All Managers meeting. At the conclusion of the Spring Managers meeting the BOD shall convene and approve the final budget.

Article VII: Board of Directors Define Duties & Powers

Section I: Executive Director Duties

Shall include but not be limited to:

Preside at all sessions of the Board of Directors and Council. Direct the policies of CSSA as established by the Council and the Board of Directors.

Acting secretary, when secretary not present

Appoint all committees unless otherwise specified herein.

Create ad hoc committees necessary to meet the needs of the association. Serve as an ex-officio member of all committees.

Coordinate with the Board of Directors the negotiations and execution of all contracts and agreements on behalf of the Association.

Coordinate and approve the agenda for all meetings of the Board of Directors and Council.

Coordinate a mail, fax, electronic or telephonic vote from the Board of Directors for any expenditure that will exceed a budgetary line item.

Determine the site of the Board of Directors meetings. The Executive Director may call a special meeting of the Board of Directors or the Council when business requires or

when directed to do so upon written petition sent to the Director by ten (10) of the members of the respective

bodies.

Delegate duties and authority to the Board of Directors and Council members.

Perform such duties as may be necessary for the proper and efficient conduct of CSSA. Negotiate and execute all contracts and agreements on behalf of the Association except, however, any contract in

excess of $10,000 or for a duration of more than one year must be approved by the Board of Directors or it shall be

void. The Executive Director shall notify the Board Members of all contracts.

Make the final decision on any interpretation of the By-Laws & Code and appoint a qualified interpreter to act in his/her absence.

Act in behalf of the Association in all matters of emergency that are not covered in the By-Laws & Code.

Report to the Board of Directors if any director is not carrying out his duties as described in the By-laws & Code. Work in conjunction with the treasurer to prepare a preliminary budget request for the following year for presentation

to the Board of Directors.

Three (3) days prior to each meeting of the Board of Directors, the Executive Director shall provide to each board

member the following:

o An agenda approved of the proceedings,

Shall send the approved budget with the minutes of the annual meeting and each Board of Directors meeting to each

Council member within 30 days after the meeting.

Receive prior authorization from the Board of Directors for any expenditure that will exceed a line item’s budget by

more than 15%. Any emergency overrun must immediately receive post expenditure authorization. Emergency authorization requests shall include an explanation regarding the nature of the emergency. The Vice-Director through a mailing, fax, electronic version, or telephone vote of the Board of Directors, shall obtain authorization.

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Section II: Vice Director Duties

Shall include but not be limited to:

Vice Director shall assist the Executive Director in every capacity listed under the Executive Director duties.

The Vice Director shall also operate in the best capacity the Vice Director sees fit for the best interest of the CSSA. Vice Director will manage the apparel purchases, inventory, and sales.

Section III: Treasurer Duties

Shall include but not be limited to:

Treasurer shall maintain financial records of the Board and ensures effective management of organization's records.

Other duties may include but are not limited to:

Three (3) days prior to a specific financial meeting of the Board of Directors, the Treasurer shall provide to each

board member the following:

o A copy of the proposed budget and all necessary background information.

Is sufficiently familiar with legal documents (articles, by-laws, IRS letters, etc.) to note applicability during meetings

Manages finances of the organization

Administrates fiscal matters of the organization

Section IV: Secretary Duties

Shall include but not be limited to: Maintain records of the board and ensures effective management of organization's records. Manage minutes of board meetings

Ensure minutes are distributed to members shortly after each meeting

Work closely with the Executive Director and other staff as guided to by the Executive Director.

Is sufficiently familiar with legal documents (articles, by-laws, IRS letters, etc.) to note applicability during meetings

Section V: Rules & Ethics Director Duties

Shall include but not be limited to:

Shall be the liaison between the Classification and Eligibility Committees Chairs and the Board of Directors. Urge team manager and coaches to enroll their teams as early as possible in the current year, and provide a

systematic plan for increasing the on-line sanctioning of the overseeing umpire association.

Will assist the committees in reviewing players, coaches, directors, and council members’ actions that involve conduct

detrimental to the purposes and objectives of CSSA, as well as study and make recommendations for the playing

rules of CSSA Co-Ed slow pitch.

Will assist the committees in reviewing, study and formulate the Official Playing Rules governing the game of softball

making recommendations to the Council on all proposed rule changes. Monitor Divisional / League Web Content

Section VI: Public Information Directors Duties

Shall include but not be limited to:

Make recommendations to the Board of Directors for future directions and goals of the CSSA Provide a program for increasing membership of all types in the CSSA.

Promote the general entertainment and off-the-field recreation of the members in the CSSA

Responsible in getting information about our association into the related 12 step programs, meetings and functions by means of physical presents and/or written form.

Responsible for updating and gathering league game information and posting on the CSSA website. Develop and oversee a State Video Committee comprised of one member from each Division.

o The Committee will help develop the yearly video presented at State.

Management of taking all CSSA Championship tournament photos and incorporating them into the State video.

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Section VII: Executive Director Emeritus. Upon retirement after completion of Five (5) years of service to the CSSA Board of Directors, the CSSA Council may elect the retiring Director to the position of Executive Director Emeritus. Executive Director Emeritus’ will have a standing seat

on the CSSA Council. The director is welcome to all meetings except the Board of Directors Executive session.

Section VIII: Director Emeritus. Upon retirement after completion of Five (5) years of service to the CSSA Board of Directors, the CSSA Council may elect the retiring Board of Director to the position of Director Emeritus. Director Emeritus’ will have a standing seat on the

CSSA Council.

Section IX: Additional Officers The Board of Directors may appoint such other Officers or agents as it may deem necessary or desirable, and may

prescribe the powers and duties of each and may fill any vacancy which may occur in any office.

Article VIII: Council The CSSA Council shall be selected regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin or ancestry. Each elected

official must have two (2) or more consecutive years of drug and alcohol abstinence to be nominated for an officer

position

Section I: Members The Council members cannot simultaneously hold any other BOD position within the association. The CSSA Council shall

consist of the Board of Directors, three Division/Territory representatives, and any Commissioners Emeritus.

Division/Territory representatives shall consist of the Division/Territory director and two other representatives elected by

the members of their respective Division and Territory members.

Sections II: Duties & Powers

The CSSA Council shall have the duties and powers as provided elsewhere herein and shall have such other duties and powers as may be delegated to it by the BOD.

The duties of the CSSA Council shall include, but shall not be limited to the following: Consider and make the final determination on director appointments;

Consider and make the final recommendation on Code, Rule and By-Law language;

Review and take action on any unethical behavior of CSSA Council members;

Sections II: Council Duties & Powers Cont.

Attend to all matters concerning future directions and goals of the CSSA; Attend to all matters concerning the annual meeting of the CSSA;

Review and take such action as the Board of Directors deems necessary or appropriate with respect to any redistricting issues;

Attend to all matters concerning the CSSA’s insurance program;

Initially at the beginning of the tournament season, Classify each of their teams (C, D, E, or Rec) based primarily on the following criteria:

o Last year’s classification

o Last year’s State championship results

o This needs to be turned in to the classification committee 3 weeks prior to the first CSSA tournament. (This

will allow leagues councils to witness 4-6 weeks of play prior to classifying them.)

o Needs to notify their teams of their classifications so that they have time to appeal prior to the first

tournament.

Section III: Meetings

See Article V

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Section IV: Discipline A Council Member may be subject to certain forms of discipline, including but not limited to, reprimand, probation, suspension, or removal at any time for just cause as follows:

A request for discipline of a Council Member may be made at any time by a CSSA Member in good standing by submitting

a request, in writing, to the Executive Director which states the specific grounds for the request for discipline and includes

any evidence in support of the request.

Upon receipt of a written request for discipline, the Executive Director shall provide a copy of the request to the Board of

Directors and the Council Member named in such request.

Article IX: Committees

Section I: Election

The Committee Chair will be appointed by the Board of Directors.

The Committee Members will be comprised of one Division member from each Division and one Division alternate from

each Division. The representatives will be appointed by their own leagues’ Council (3) Members.

Section II: Term Committee

Chair 2 year term Division Representative 2 year term

Division Alt. Representative 1 year term

Section III: Qualifications

2 years of participation within the CSSA organization as a player member

2 years consecutive sobriety

Section IV: Duties

Committee Members must attend all Committee meetings

Committee Members must maintain regular contact with their Alternates

Alternates are required to attend meetings only when their regular Committee Chair is unable to attend.

If regular or alternate committee member is unable to attend meetings, the Division Committee Member must notify the

Committee Chair person by e-mail or phone prior to the missed meeting.

Section V: Vacancy

If a vacancy occurs in the Committee Chair position, for any reason resigns, is unable to act, is removed from office or

dies, then the BOD will appoint a new Chairperson.

Section VI: Removal

Two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors may remove a Committee Chair for just cause.

Section VII: Eligibility Committee

Works with the Rules & Ethics Board of Director as liaison between the committee and the BOD. Review standing and future eligibility rules in the best interest of the CSSA.

Propose any changes to the Council for vote.

Review and conduct needed hearings pertaining to eligibility requirements / violations / complaints per CSSA

guidelines. Oversee and determine eligibility appeals including hardships and player transfers -Permanent Roster changes.

o These appeals are on a case by case basis

Support and assist the Board of Directors in all Eligibility matters as requested.

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Section VIII: Classification Committee

Works with the Rules & Ethics Board of Director as liaison between the committee and the BOD. Does NOT originally classify teams. The three Council Members from each Division classify teams.

DO re-classify teams.

Maintain balanced team competition in tournament play.

Collecting and providing classification information for each team and player member in their Division to the

Classification Chair in writing three weeks prior to our first CSSA sanctioned event.

o APPEALS prior to the first tournament need to be directed to their division’s council.

o After the first tournament, appeals will be directed to the classification committee.

Roster additions after the first tournament need to be submitted for review by the classification committee. Roster

Addition paperwork will be given to the Executive Director and handed down to the Classification Chair. Review standing and future classification rules in the best interest of the CSSA.

Propose any changes to the Council for vote.

Review and conduct needed hearings pertaining to classification requirements / violations / complaints per CSSA

guidelines.

Oversee and determine classification appeals.

o These appeals are on a case by case basis

Support and assist the Board of Directors in all Classification matters as requested. Reviewing the criteria of each team throughout the season will enable the CSSA to accurately determine which

classification level a team should be placed.

Section IX: NW Championship Video Committee The Committee will be Chaired by the Public Information Board of Director. The committee will consist of a player

member from each Division.

The committee will:

Help facilitate getting the Championship photos taken at every tournament.

Take photos at the tournaments.

Get the photos to the PI BOD.

Help create the State video with the PI BOD.

Create copies of the video and help sell at the State banquet.

Section X: Tournament Committee

The Tournament Committee shall consist of the following and any other member appointed by the Executive Director:

The duly elected Tournament Committee Director, and three (3) other council members or regular members elected by the council

The Tournament Director will act as Chair of this committee.

The Executive Director shall be ex-officio member of the committee.

The Executive Director may appoint additional committee members as deemed necessary

Section XI: Sanctioning & Umpires

This committee shall promote the general welfare of the umpires in the CSSA. The Umpires Committee shall consist of the following and any other member appointed by the Executive Director:

The Rules & Ethics BOD, and three (3) other council members elected by the council

The Rules & Ethics BOD will act as Chair of this committee.

The Vice Director shall be ex-officio member of the committee.

The Executive Director may appoint additional committee members as deemed necessary.

CSSA By-Laws Page 12

Section XII: Hall of Fame Committee

Hall of Fame. This committee shall provide and publicize the CSSA Hall of Fame. Its duties shall include but not be limited to the following:

Review the requirements for CSSA Hall of Fame and publicize so they shall be continually before our directors. Request nominations from directors for Hall of Fame consideration.

Call attention each spring to all members that any future nominations to be considered for the election at the annual

Council meeting must be prepared early, with the required information and materials.

Committee members. The Hall of Fame Committee shall consist of 5 Council members appointed by the Executive

Director for a term of two years.

Article X: Division & Territory Directors

Section I: Qualifications

Each elected Division/Territory Director must meet the Council eligibility requirements.

Section II: Duties A Division/Territory director shall represent his Division/Territory on the CSSA Council and be responsible for, yet not

limited to the following: Remit annually, on or before the Spring Council Meeting, association fees, sanction fees, insurance, and cost of balls

as set forth by the Council.

Must have all required forms turned into the Division’s Director prior to their first game or the team will not be eligible to participate in Division play.

Being responsible for all moneys and dues owed to the CSSA, team and sanction registration fees must be remitted within 30 days of receipt. Failure to do so is grounds for suspension and/or removal.

Awarding and supervising all championship bids in his association area.

Appointing deputy directors and any such other persons as may be required for efficient administration of his/her

Division.

Coordinating an annual meeting of the division, and filing with the Executive Director, within thirty (30) days after the meeting a complete report of this meeting.

Enforcing and abiding by the rules and regulations of CSSA in his/her association area as promulgated by the CSSA

By Laws and Code.

Directors are responsible to forward team’s rosters and affidavits are forwarded to the Executive Director.

Section III: Elections

A Division/Territory director from each Division shall be elected prior to or at the annual Spring Managing Members’ meeting. The Division/Territory director shall come from the members of the respective Division/Territory and shall be elected by a majority vote of the Division’s members.

Section IV: Meetings

The Division’s Director will facilitate the date, time, & place of their region’s membership & coaches meetings.

Article XI: Affiliations

A Director of a division cannot hold any other position within the association simultaneously.

No person affiliated with a competing softball association is eligible for office or to serve as a CSSA director. The

Board of Directors of the CSSA has the final decision regarding the definition of a competing association. Unless otherwise approved by a majority vote of the Council.

Division and territory directors may not negotiate or agree to any contracts without the prior knowledge and approval

of the CSSA Board of Directors.

No association director may umpire at a state, regional, or area Championship Final hosted within his own

association.

CSSA By-Laws Page 13

Article XII: Discipline A director may be subject to certain forms of discipline, including but not limited to, reprimand, probation, suspension, or removal at any time for just cause as follows:

A request for discipline of a director may be made at any time by a CSSA member by submitting a request, in writing, to the Executive Director which states the specific grounds for the request for discipline and includes any evidence in

support of the request.

Upon receipt of a written request for discipline, the Executive Director shall provide a copy of the request to the

Board of Directors and the director named in such request.

Article XIII: Financial and Accounting

Section I: Finances

The Board of Directors shall decide all matters pertaining to the finances of CSSA and it shall place all income including Auxiliary funds, in a common league treasury, directing the expenditure of same in such manner as will give no individual or team an advantage over those in competition with such individual or team.

Section II: Contribution of funds or property The Board shall not permit the contribution of funds or property to individual teams or leagues, but shall solicit same for the common treasury of the CSSA, thereby to discourage favoritism among teams and Divisions and to endeavor to equalize the benefits of the CSSA.

Section III: Solicitation of funds

The Board shall not permit the solicitation of funds in the name of CSSA unless all of the funds so raised be placed in

CSSA treasury.

Section IV: Disbursement of CSSA funds The Board shall not permit the disbursement of CSSA funds for other than the conduct of CSSA activities in accordance with the rules and policies of the CSSA.

Section V: Compensation No Director, Officer or Member of CSSA shall receive, directly or indirectly any additional salary, compensation, or loan

from the CSSA outside of salaries outlined in the CSSA code for services rendered as Director, Officer or Member.

Section VI: Bank Account

All moneys received; including Auxiliary Funds, shall be deposited to the credit of CSSA in a bank account approved by

the Board and all disbursement shall be made by check. The CSSA Executive Director & Treasurer shall sign all checks

and such other officer or officers or person or persons as the Board of Directors shall determine.

Section VII: Fiscal year

The fiscal year of CSSA shall begin on the first day of January and shall end on the last day of December.

Section VIII: Distribution of Property upon Dissolution Upon dissolution of CSSA and after all outstanding debts and claims have been satisfied, the Board of Directors shall distribute the property of CSSA to such other Federally Incorporated entity maintaining an objective similar to that set out herein, which are or may be entitled to exemption under Section 501 (c) (4) of the Internal Revenue Code or any future corresponding provision.

Article XIV: Changes & Amendments

Section I: By Law Amendments This Constitution and By-laws may be amended, repealed, or altered in whole or in part by a quorum of 51% voting members, and then are passed or failed based on a 2/3rd or 66% affirmative vote of the quorum present, at any duly organized meeting.

Section II: Code and Rule Amendments The CSSA playing rules and governing code needs a quorum of 51% voting members, and then all motions are passed or failed based on a 2/3rd or 66% affirmative vote of the quorum present, at any duly organized meeting.